The 2024 NHL offseason has rapidly become a whirlwind of activity as teams scramble to solidify their rosters through draft picks, trades, and lucrative contracts.
Draft Highlights
The San Jose Sharks made a significant splash by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Celebrini's potential is highly anticipated, and his entry into the NHL is set to bring a fresh dynamic to the Sharks' lineup.
Big Deals and Major Moves
With the commencement of free agency, several teams have wasted no time in securing key players. The Florida Panthers, fresh off their thrilling victory in the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers in Game 7, have locked in forward Sam Reinhart with an eight-year, $69 million contract extension. Reinhart, who scored the game-winning goal in the playoffs and tallied ten goals, now boasts an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million.
In another high-profile move, the Tampa Bay Lightning signed Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million deal, equating to a $9 million AAV. This follows the acquisition of Guentzel’s negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. The Lightning also traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the draft, signaling a strategic shift in their defensive lineup.
Strategic Signings
The New York Islanders bolstered their offense by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Duclair, who scored 24 goals last season while splitting his time between the Sharks and the Lightning, brings significant experience and scoring ability to the Islanders, having accumulated 303 career points.
Out West, the Seattle Kraken secured Chandler Stephenson with a seven-year contract averaging $6.25 million annually. Stephenson has consistently tallied at least 50 points over the past three seasons, making him a reliable asset for the Kraken's ambitions. Additionally, the Kraken signed defenseman Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract. Montour was instrumental during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing three goals and eight assists.
Reunions and Prospective Signings
The Columbus Blue Jackets are creating a buzz with the signing of Sean Monahan to a five-year deal worth $5.5 million annually. This move reunites Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the Blue Jackets in 2022. Their previous chemistry could prove advantageous for the team's offensive strategies.
The Vancouver Canucks secured winger Jake DeBrusk with a seven-year deal, paying an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk, who posted 40 points last season, is expected to strengthen the Canucks' forward lines substantially.
The Carolina Hurricanes retained a critical piece of their defense by extending Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years at a $6.5 million AAV. Slavin, who compiled 37 points last season, remains a cornerstone for the Hurricanes' defensive strategy.
Nashville Predators' Bold Moves
The Nashville Predators are making waves with notable acquisitions and prospective signings. Brady Skjei joined the Predators on a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. Furthermore, the team is poised to sign veteran Steven Stamkos to a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Stamkos, who has amassed 1,137 points in his illustrious career, will bring a high level of experience and skill to Nashville.
Jonathan Marchessault is also expected to join the Predators on a five-year contract worth $5.5 million per season, further solidifying the team's offensive lineup.
Toronto's Defensive Reinforcements
The Toronto Maple Leafs have strengthened their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. The Maple Leafs acquired Tanev’s negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars, and despite posting only five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, Tanev's defensive prowess is well-regarded in the league.
As the offseason continues to unfold, these strategic moves are poised to impact the upcoming NHL season significantly. Teams are not just building for immediate success but are making calculated decisions aimed at ensuring long-term competitiveness and resilience.